GOGA shines across Blackpool on packed activity day

Welcoming attendees from Activity Alliance, Active Blackpool partners, and Blackpool Coastal Housing partners, the day began with an overview of GOGA activities and their impact in the area. This was followed by an energetic boxing session; just one of the regular activities that take place because of the GOGA programme. 

Taking the opportunity to step outdoors, a post-lunch walk was enjoyed by all in Stanley Park. Attendees were then treated to games of Boccia and darts before listening to a panel of people who have been involved in GOGA. The panel consisted of volunteers, participants, and people from Jobs, Friends and Houses (JFH), who all shared their experiences of GOGA and how the programme has positively impacted their lives.

Vicky, a Physical Activities Sports Coach at Active Lives, said: 

"I love the variety of GOGA! It can take a couple of people to start an activity and then the whole group gets involved. GOGA offers the freedom of being able to do what we need to for the people in the sessions. We see huge improvements, as we can adapt a session for the people who come."

GOGA is much more than an activity programme. It not only helps to support the least active disabled and non-disabled people in activity, but it also encourages various generations to enjoy activities together as well as independently. One participant’s mum, who also takes part in GOGA activities, said:

"It’s amazing. It provides structure for the day. Its more than sport, it’s the friendships that come from it – they’ve started to do things together outside of the sessions. I can tell he’s had a good time when he comes home and talks about the instructors, which shows how much he has enjoyed it."

The activity day not only showcased the programme itself but highlighted the joy that participants have found in being part of a GOGA-led approach to activities. The participants’ smiles and pride in their sessions, groups, and friendships were evident to see. Each activity serves as a catalyst for enjoyment and laughter, bringing people together to enjoy each other’s company and to be active together.

Of the event, April Oldfield from Active Blackpool said: 

"In my view, it successfully achieved our aim of showcasing GOGA’s flexibility and the invaluable opportunities it provides for residents to move more and lead more active, healthier lives. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of the programme in Blackpool, and emphasized that our work is far from complete."

For more information on GOGA activities in the Blackpool area, visit the Active Blackpool website.